Presiding Judge and Assistant Are Sworn In

California Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald George administered the oath of office to Campbell, the county's new presiding judge, and to Clark, assistant presiding judge, at a ceremony at the county Government Center.

George lauded the county courts system, saying it has played a leading role in carrying out state-mandated consolidation of superior and municipal court administration.

In the past, superior and municipal courts had separate presiding and assistant presiding judges. But Campbell and Clark will oversee both courts under the new system.

"Ventura has provided a model for many courts across the state of California," George told the black-robed judges assembled before him.

"This is a fertile laboratory in creating innovative court administration. . . . I know the rest of the state will continue to benefit from Ventura's leadership role."

In addition to various administrative duties, the presiding judge and his assistant are responsible for assigning trials to judges.